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February 2024

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Foot

The main symptoms of a broken foot are severe pain, swelling, and bruising around the injured area. Some patients may experience very intense pain when touching or applying pressure to the foot. Difficulty or inability to bear weight on the foot, along with visible deformities or changes in foot shape, can also indicate a potential break. Numbness of the foot is another possible symptom. X-rays or other imaging tests are commonly used to confirm the presence of a fracture. Taking immediate steps to address a potential broken foot can lead to a more effective recovery and prevent complications down the line. If you have a painful foot and suspect a break or fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Robbi Young from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 20 February 2024 00:00

Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

Plantar digital neuroma, also known as Morton's neuroma, is characterized by the thickening of the tissue surrounding the nerves that run between the toes, most often affecting the area between the third and fourth toes. This thickening can cause compression and irritation of the nerve, leading to pain and discomfort. Individuals with plantar digital neuroma typically experience sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness in the toes, and the sensation of standing on a pebble or fold in a sock. Pain may worsen with walking, wearing tight or narrow shoes, or squeezing the forefoot. The discomfort associated with Morton’s neuroma can be disruptive to daily activities and may worsen over time if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms of plantar digital neuroma is essential for seeking proper diagnosis and treatment to alleviate pain and restore foot health. If you have pain or discomfort between your third and fourth toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can confirm Morton's neuroma, and offer correct treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Robbi Young of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Friday, 16 February 2024 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tuesday, 13 February 2024 00:00

Possible Reasons for Pinky Toe Pain

Pain in the pinky toe, though seemingly small, can be a significant source of discomfort, and understanding the potential causes is critical for effective resolution. Wearing ill-fitting footwear emerges as a frequent culprit, as tight shoes or those with narrow toe boxes can compress the pinky toe, leading to friction, irritation, and pain. Stubbing the pinky toe against furniture or other objects is another common cause of acute pain, often accompanied by swelling and bruising. Structural issues such as hammertoes or corns can contribute to ongoing discomfort, creating pressure points on the pinky toe. Additionally, overuse or strain from activities like running or prolonged standing may result in muscle or ligament injuries around the pinky toe. Identifying the specific cause of pinky toe pain is essential for implementing appropriate interventions. If you have pinky toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robbi Young of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 06 February 2024 00:00

Types and Grades of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains, a common injury affecting individuals regardless of activity level, can take various forms. Inversion ankle sprains, the most prevalent type, occur when the foot abruptly turns inward, stretching the outer ligaments. This type of ankle sprain is commonly experienced during activities like running or basketball. Eversion ankle sprains, which are less frequent but equally painful, result from the foot rolling outward, affecting inner ligaments, often seen in gymnastics. Understanding the grades of ankle sprains further aids in treatment decisions. Grade 1 sprains involve mild symptoms and minimal ligament damage, allowing for continued activity with caution. Grade 2 sprains, moderate in severity, entail partial ligament tears. This leads to more pronounced swelling and discomfort, potentially requiring more extensive treatment. Grade 3 sprains, the most severe, feature complete ligament tears, or ruptures, resulting in significant pain, instability, and necessitating thorough rehabilitation for full recovery. Whether you are an athlete or a casual walker, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist if you have incurred an ankle sprain to ensure a smoother return to daily activities with proper care and attention.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Robbi Young from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
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